At a Glance
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Tasmania’s alpine heart of the Central Highlands to the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Immerse in 7 days walking the iconic and picturesque Overland Track, Mt Field National Park and the best sections of Cradle Mountain. Retire each night in picturesque locations and cozy alpine accommodations while indulging in hearty Tasmanian meals.
Starting in Hobart, venture up to a part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area of Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park- synonymous with nature, wilderness and all things pristine. Be blown away from exceptional natural beauty from moss-covered ancient rainforests, glacially carved valleys, fragrant eucalyptus forests, golden buttongrass plains and deep river gorges to snow-covered mountain peaks, wild alpine meadows and glacial lakes. Uncover a new world-class trail each day from ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- Lake St Clair Ferry pass
- National Park entrance fees
- Two qualified and fun guides
- All meals inspired by fresh Tasmanian produce including packed lunch morning tea and fruit snacks out on the tracks
- 6 night’s accommodation on a twin share basis from cabins, cottages and hotels
- Tour transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned mini bus
Itinerary
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At your own pace and time, make your way to Australia’s second oldest capital city of Hobart. Absorb its captivating history and heritage charm amongst the foothills of Mt Wellington and its surrounding scenic vistas. Settle into your night’s stay at the charming Travelodge Hotel Hobart, overlooking the stunning Mt Wellington and conveniently located in the heart of the historic city. Come 6pm meet your lovely guides at the lobby for a briefing of your adventures ahead before indulging in a delicious celebratory welcome dinner together inspired by the best Tasmanian produce. |
Travelodge Hotel Hobart
Dinner |
Walking Distance: Approx. 16km (3.7 miles), 8 hours walking, moderate grade An early rise, take a scenic journey to Mt Field National Park, part of the Tasmania Wilderness Heritage Area. Aside from the possible platypus, kangaroo and koala spotting, some of the world’s tallest eucalyptus forests as well as unique plant diversity come into view, an indication of the drama to come. A steep drive up to Lake Dobson begins a moderate walk traversing fragrant Eucalyptus forests before rising to Twighlight Tarn leading to the incredibly beautiful Tarn Shelf. The natural flora transforms as you climb, boasting a constantly changing view that will leave you breathless. The highlight of the climb is Tarn Shelf, a picturesque series of small glacial lakes, you’ll think you are in the Lord of The Rings. These lakes are particularly colourful on Autumn when the Fagus beech (Australia’s only deciduous tree) turns from red to gold. Enjoy lunch on top of the tarn with magnificent glacier-formed landscape, lakes and valleys in sight. It’s then a return walk into wooded terrain back to Lake Dobson. You may be lucky colliding with some of Tasmania's endangered species as Mt Field is home to eleven of Tasmania’s twelve endemic birds and also the eastern barred bandicoot and You’ll stay at cozy and enchanting self-contained cottages in the quaint mountain town of Maydena, nestled in the peaceful Derwent Valley region. End the day savouring a well-deserved meal at its onsite restaurant. |
Giant’s Table and Cottages Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |
Walking Distance: Approx. 11.2km (7.0 miles), 3-4 hours walking, easy to moderate grade Begin the day cruising to discover the rare beauty and diversity of Tasmania's World Heritage Listed Cradle Mountain, Lake St Clair. Aboard the ferry to Echo Point for a spectacular short cruise down the majestic dolerite mountain ranges and Gondwanan forests surrounding St Clair, boasting unparalleled views. An unforgettable ferry transporting you on the highest altitude ferry service in Australia operating on the deepest lake in Australia at approximately 160 metres deep. Embark on a peaceful walk on the iconic Overland Track, beginning at Echo Point to skirt the edge of Lake St Clair as it heads towards the serene Cynthia Bay. The walk journeys through an enchanting temperate rainforest before transitioning to the fragrant Eucalyptus woodlands, ferns, myrtle, celery-top pine and leatherwood of canopy amongst lush mosses below. Along the way, admire the rich array of plant species unique to Tasmania. Feeling inspired and connected to nature, you’ll stay the next two nights at the cozy cabins nestled only a few metres to the stunning Lake St Clair, a true gem of Tasmania. Soak in the majestic surrounds of mountains and forest before enjoying a hearty dinner showcasing fresh Tasman produce at a local restaurant. |
Lake St Clair CabinsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |
Mt Rufus Circuit: Approx. 19km (11.8 miles), 7 hours walking, moderate grade Shadow Lake Circuit: Approx. 12km (7.5 miles), 5hrs, easy to moderate grade Today, there are two walks to choose from. For those seeking a challenge, opt for the climb to the top of Mt Rufus, 1416 metres above sea level, where you’ll feel on top of the world admiring breathtaking views of Lake St Clair and the surrounding mountain ranges. Traverse ancient sculptured sandstones and alpine forests dominated by snow gums which showcases a colourful show of fragrant flowers during Spring. The shorter and gentle walk of Shadow Lake Circuit journeys through strikingly diverse forests of eucalyptus and towering snow gums and drops down to enchanting forest gullies with lichen and moss-covered rocks. Surrounded by beautiful sub-alpine pencil pines and nestled below Mt Hugel, Shadow Lake is one to remember. An ample opportunity to set for lunch. Keep a keen eye out for the local platypus that call this lake home. Back at cabins, enjoy the simple pleasures of rejuvenating showers before rejoining for another hearty dinner. |
Lake St Clair CabinsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |
Walking Distance: Approx. 6km (3.7 miles), 2 hours walking, easy grade Delve deeper into the Tasmanian wilderness on a 3 hours journey to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, one of Australia’s most iconic national parks. The drive will take you deep into a timeless realm of pines, glacial lakes and rugged mountains. Come afternoon, set out on one of Tasmania’s 60 best walks, the Dove Lake Circuit Walk. A picturesque and gentle flat walk following the circumference of the lake and transporting you through sandy lake beaches, cascading waterfalls and beneath the craggy spires of the indomitable Cradle Mountain. Dove Lake itself is a rather beautiful scene especially when the wind is low where its dark blue colours boasts an incredibly reflective surface. Get the angle right and you can take a picture of the lake and the snow-capped peaks around it. The circuit is boardwalk for much of the way, making it the ideal chance to recover from your pass trails. Along the way, admire the impressive power of glaciers at the colossal Glacier Rock, wander the stunning natural cathedral defining The Ballroom Forest and step back in time at the Boatshed to imagine the majestic Huon Pine boats that used to ferry passengers around the lake in the 1930’s. You’ll stay the next two nights in self-contained cabins at Cradle Mountain Discovery Holiday Park. Situated right on the perimeter of the World-Heritage Listed National Park and overlooking the lush ancient forest. Tonight, treat yourself to a delicious feast at the Cradle Mountain Tavern Bar and Bistro showcasing a warm, casual, rustic atmosphere complete with a roaring log fire and pool table. |
Cradle Mountains Discovery Holiday ParkBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |
Walking Distance: Approx. 5 hours Lace up your hiking boots as you conquer another day uncovering the unspoiled beauty of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Today is your time in the wilderness as your generous guides will tailor the day to suit prevailing weather conditions, the energy levels of the groups as well as own preferences. Experience the other side of the Overland Track, its starting point at the iconic Cradle Mountain Area. With a few walking track options varied from short and long, regardless you’ll find yourself submerged in the lavish wilderness of Tasmanian alpine. Meander through majestic ancient rainforests to alpine lakes or mountain summits. Traverse diverse landscapes of glacially carved valleys, fragrant eucalyptus forests, golden buttongrass plain, pristine glacial lakes and picturesque alpine meadows to even cascading waterfalls. Relax back at the cabins, refresh in a soothing shower before a well-deserved dinner inspired by local Tasmanian delights. |
Cradle Mountains Discovery Holiday ParkBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |
Walking Distance: Approx. 2 hours walking Capp off your last day on your incredible walking adventure with one last picturesque morning walk. You guides will tailor the walk depending on the weather conditions. Soak in the fresh alpine air and wild mountain country views one final moment before journeying to the charming city of Launceston. Arrival time is around 3pm in time to board an evening flight home. |
NoneBreakfast, LunchDates & Prices
Please contact us for group bookings and private tours.
More Info
- The departure point is Hobart
- The finish point is Launceston
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Hobart
Cradle-Mountain-Lake St Clair has a temperate, four-season climate with mild summers (Dec-Feb) and cold winters (Jun-Aug) with heavy rainfall throughout the year. Average winter temperatures range from –8.3 degree Celsius to 0.2 degrees Celsius, so suitable warm clothing is a must.
Regardless of where and when you travel in Tasmania you should be prepared for sudden, temporary deterioration in the weather, especially if bushwalking. Always carry additional warm clothing including a waterproof outer layer.
- Stay in a variety of accommodation from comfortable, self-contained cottages and cabins to motel style rooms. Accommodation is on a double or twin share basis. A limited number of single supplements are available – please let us know if you would like this option when booking.
- 1 night: Travelodge Hotel Hobart Located in the heart of Hobart, we will stay here for the first night before an early departure for Mt Field National Park the next day. To celebrate our journey ahead we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Rooms are standard Twin share/Queen rooms with ensuites.
- 1 night: Giants Table Cottages Basic but comfortable self-contained cottages and houses in the little mountain town of Maydena, situated in the beautiful Derwent Valley region of South West Tasmania. We will spread out over two or three cottages, and enjoy dinner at the accommodation’s restaurant.
- 2 nights: Lake St Clair Cabins Staying within a few hundred metres of the lake itself, this is a real gem! Rimmed by mountains and forest, Lake St Clair is a real highlight of Tasmania. We will spread out across a number of cabins in park grounds and enjoy dinner together in the lodge’s restaurant one night and the next at a local restaurant.
- 2 nights: Cradle Mountain Discovery Holiday Park Cabins Located on the perimeter of the World-Heritage listed Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park, home of the famous Cradle Mountain in Tasmania’s Western Wilderness. We’ll spread out over a number of basic but comfortable self-contained cabins. We’ll enjoy our evening meals at the Cradle Mountain Lodge tavern bar and bistro.
- At all of the locations we will come together in one of the houses/cabins for breakfast and to make our packed lunches for the days walk. Dinner will enjoy at a variety of local restaurants for the tour.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
